Seasons
Only for the coming year would my husband be exactly like this. Only for these fleeting moments would my children talk, look and act exactly like this. And if I chose to hurry through them in an attempt to avoid the parts I didn't like, I'd simultaneously miss all the things I did like about this season...
-Priscilla Shirer
Contentment. The topic my sister and I have had great coversation about this past week. As women and moms, we are great at recognizing what needs work, what needs cleaning, what simply cannot be left alone without more time and attention immediately. We are constantly planning and thinking about the items on tomorrow's agenda and working diligently to make sure every last item on today's list is checked off before our head hits the pillow. Just one more load of laundry, one more hour at work, one more errand, one more e-mail. Our lists are never-ending, all while tomorrow arrives too quickly. This season is fleeting...
The Holman Bible Dictionary defines contentement as: "An internal satisfaction which does not demand changes in external circumstances." Contentment. A matter of the heart. My contentment is not based on the happenings in my world on a given day (thank you, Jesus!). When I feed on the things of God, the thoughts of God, when I dig into the word of God, when I fill up on His content, then and only then will I find true contentment. God's call on my life has very little to do with the last email I sent or load of laundry I folded. Yes, we should do all things to glorify Him, but sometimes I'm so busy with the day to day and stressed out by what still needs to be done, that find I have missed out on special moments with my little ones. When I stop chasing and start pursuing my family in the same way that God pursues me, I will find true joy and fulfillment in this season of life.
Ladies,
Here's to reminding each other to take time for the small things: the kisses, the cuddles, the moments of explanation, the wiping of tears, the family meals (where Mom actually sits down with her family). Let's be purposeful and intentional about how we spend our time. This is truly a very hard task,and all I know is that I cannot do it without Him!
So, what are some creative ways you have been intentional with your time as a wife or mom? What ideas can you share to help others better invest in this season of life?
Phillipians 4:11-13
11 I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13 I can do all this through him who gives me strength. Phillipians 4:4-9
4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 9 Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.
8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 9 Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.
Related Resources:
The Holman Bible Dictionary
The Resolution for Women by Priscilla ShirerPin It now!
